A pre-development agreement will now be drawn up between Bouygues TP and the client and project sponsor, the Tyne and Wear Passenger Transport Authority (TWPTA), which will enable various site investigations and surveys to proceed in advance of construction work starting in spring 2008.

A period of negotiation will also now take place, which is expected to culminate in the signing of the project contract by late summer. Once completed, the Preferred Bidder will retain the role of Concessionaire.

The New Tyne Crossing project includes financing, designing and building a second vehicle tunnel under the Tyne and refurbishing the existing vehicle tunnel.

The Concessionaire will begin to operate and maintain the Tyne Tunnels (which includes the cycle and pedestrian tunnels) for up to 30 years, sixty days after signing the Concession Contract.

Issued on behalf of the Tyne and Wear Passenger Transport Authority by Bradley O’Mahoney Public Relations. Media contacts Richard Simpson 07821 537106 or Felicity Amer on 0191 281 8833. www.newtynecrossing.info